Part 1

The original Disneyland – in Anaheim, California – turns 60 in July 2015! In those six decades since Walt Disney officially opened his wonderful theme park, hundreds upon hundreds of millions of people have walked through the gates and experienced the magic of having their dreams come true!

Walt Disney’s magical world was the manifestation of a dream he held, to create a fabulous theme park that both adults and children could equally enjoy together. A dad to two daughters himself, Walt Disney was a visionary who sought inspiration from his own family and designed an experience that families around the world have placed high on their ‘must-visit’ holiday lists since that very first official opening day on 17 July 1955.

From the breaking of the ground on the 72 ha site on 21 July 1954, the magical worlds of Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland and Tomorrowland and the fun of Main Street USA were open to the public on 18 July, 1955 – at $1 admission with attractions ranging from 10c to 35c!

The Santa Fe Railroad, Jungle Cruise, Mark Twain Riverboat, Mad Tea Party, Sleeping Beauty Castle and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea were just some of the now much-loved Disneyland attractions that greeted guests.

Across the next six decades, Disneyland’s popularity has never waned. Each new year brings a whole host of fresh and funtastic magical experiences – with development, expansion and new attractions always high on the Disneyland agenda!

In 2015 the fanfare and fireworks in celebration of Disneyland’s 60th Birthday will be a sight to see! It truly is The Happiest Place on Earth!

Here are just some of the milestones!

1960s

The family favourite – It’s a Small World – is openedSwiss Family Treehouse arrives in AdventurelandThe Haunted Mansion opens

1970s

100 millionth guest walks through the gates on 17 June 1971!
Construction begins on Space Mountain
7 new scenes and 31 figures added to the Jungle Cruise

1980s

Mark V monorails debutState Fair held at Disneyland for the first time

1990s

The Lion King Celebration, Aladdin’s Royal Caravan Parade and The Spirit of Pocahontas all debut
The Disneyland Resort announces plans for a new theme park to be built in the existing Disneyland Parking lotTarzan’s Treehouse opens